Kodak EasyShare P712 - DigitalVersus

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Kodak EasyShare P712

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Specifications
Sensor	CCD 7 mégapixels (1/2.5'')
Zoom	12x (32 - 432 mm F2.8 - F3.37)
Optical stabilization	Oui
Internal/external memory	32 Mo / SD
Sensitivity	64 - 400 ISO
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Video mode	640 x 480 pixels / 0
Power source	Batterie Lithium-Ion
Dimensions/Weight	108 x 84 x 72 mm / 440 g
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Vincent Alzieu
Updated: July 11, 2007 - Test date: September 08, 2006

The P712 succeeds the P850 and the dimensions remain the same. In terms of characteristics, there is now a 7 megapixel sensor versus the previous 5. What really changes, however, is not immediately visible. We strongly criticized the P850 for its inefficient stabilization and excessive slowness. Kodak remedied these two points. The P712 is not yet what we would call a fast camera, but we gain a second when turning it on now at 1.5 seconds.
More importantly, stabilization went from « the worst we’ve seen in tests» to normal or good. In our trials, the P850 was only sharp at a minimum time of 1/20 s. With the P712, we go up to 1/8 and in consequence, we were able to go down in sensitivity. As a reminder, our portrait test is carried out indoors in controlled artificial light and so conditions are exactly the same as they were a year ago. Last year, the the P850 had to function at 400 ISO (at least) to produce a sharp photo. This is now 125 ISO for the P712 and as the level of noise and detail show, it’s much better. This better efficiency in image stabilization also affects photos made with the zoom. They are now sharper even at maximum range.

The other strong points of this camera are: the video mode is (as is of often the case with Kodak) very good with better than average sound (those who listen intently may nevertheless hear a slight whistling in the background) ; menus are simple and changing modes is very quick. However, for as much is this the best bridge in its price range?

The P712 compared to the competition?

- The P712 vs. the Sony DSC-H5: Overall these two cameras are similar with the same 7Mpx sensor, zoom (32 – 432 mm), both with a good video mode with optical zoom, and similar price. Nevertheless, they differ on several points. The H5 has a dominance in red while the P712 leans toward yellow. The Sony has a better macro mode which is a little more precise, while the P712’s flash distorts colors less. Finally, the latter is 50g lighter and comes rechargeable while the Sony needs batteries. This last point could be decisive.

- The P712 versus the Panasonic DMC-FZ7 :- The P712 has 1 MP more and sharpness and contrast are better. It also has a bigger wide angle (32–432 mm versus 36-432 mm for the FZ7). The P712 is notably faster between photos and for night focus. The FZ7 has a good macro mode and bad flash, and it’s the opposite for the P712. The FZ7 is a little underexposed but has a good reproduction of colors, while the P712 captures light well, but has a dominance in yellow. Finally, the P712 is 100g heavier but 90€ more expensive.

Compare its results in tests with the competition's in the Product Face-off section

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Pluses

Good video mode

Quick in focusing

Optical stabilization, non compressed recording modes (RAW, TIF)

Simple to use, nice to hold

Faster and better equipped than the previous P850

Minuses

Slow to turn on

Dominance in yellow

It’s a very good alternative to Sony’s H5. Between the two, it’s a question of taste. Do you prefer rechargeable batteries and what type of colors are better?